Vikings Packers

Vikings Packers, A capsule look at NFL Week 10′s final game, with the Minnesota Vikings at the Green Bay Packers. Game time is 8:30 p.m. ET at Lambeau Field. What’s at stake: This is the Packers’ only Monday night appearance of the 2011 season, so it’s a chance to show just how mighty they are as the league’s only undefeated team. They got a scare in Minnesota three weeks ago, so they know the rival Vikings will give them a fight in Green Bay.

Aaron Rodgers will look to continue what may be the best all-around season ever enjoyed by a pro quarterback, while rookie counterpart Christian Ponder is looking for a signature win after just getting his first career victory against Carolina before the Vikings’ Week 9 bye.

— Troy Aikman’s Hot Reads: Breaking down Rodgers’ landmark season

Key matchup
Vikings RB Adrian Peterson vs. Packers’ front seven. When the teams met in the Metrodome in Week 7, Peterson rumbled for 175 yards on 24 carries. It’s what helped Ponder and the Vikings stay competitive in in that game before losing 33-27.

In the Week 8 win at Carolina, Peterson had his most active game as a receiver this season, with five catches for 76 yards. He served as an excellent dump-off option for Ponder, and will look to get open quickly to assist his young passer when the Packers’ bring good pocket pressure. His presence in the passing game for potential screen plays should also keep Green Bay wary of blitzing.

— Player pages: Peterson | Ponder | top receiver Michael Jenkins

Another key for Peterson and the Vikings is protecting the ball. He has erased his past fumbling issues, with none lost this season. Ponder, who threw two interceptions against the Packers in Minnesota, needs to rely on Peterson and his tight ends and avoid forcing the ball downfield.

“Be careful with the ball — that’s the main thing so we’re not giving that (Packers) offense more opportunities,” Peterson said. “They’re hard enough to stop as it is. If we eliminate our turnovers and just be sound, we’ll have a chance.”